E-quipment highlight: Milwaukee M18 FUEL dual battery electric chainsaw

Milwaukee Tool’s new M18 FUEL dual-battery electric chainsaw makes up to 5.8 hp – that’s the equivalent of 70 cc of ICE power to deliver faster cutting, fewer stalls, and a more balanced weight distribution for better control.

Milwaukee missed zero opportunities to stuff its new 20″ M18 FUEL chainsaw with branded technology. The saw ships with REDLITHIUM batteries, an improved POWERSTATE brushless DC motor, and REDLINK PLUS Intelligence that the company says enables “full-circle communication between the saw and battery,” for improved performance, battery safety, and job site productivity

“This most recent expansion in Milwaukee’s lineup sets a new standard of battery chainsaw performance capabilities, delivering unprecedented power while maintaining battery compatibility,” explains Tony Buxton, director of product marketing for Milwaukee Tool. “When paired with the new M18 REDLITHIUM FORGE XC8.0 Batteries, this saw provides professionals with a significant leap in capability for maximum productivity, ultimately showcasing the power REDLITHIUM FORGE battery technology unlocks on the job. With this expansion in our chainsaw lineup designed to meet the performance needs of the tree care industry, Milwaukee is delivering the most comprehensive offering of professional battery chainsaw solutions.”

Once you get past the branding exercise, the saw itself is an impressive piece of equipment. In addition to delivering competitive power, the Milwaukee electric chainsaw eliminates the most common ICE headaches, like pull starts, high noise levels, regular engine maintenance, and (of course) the disproportionately high carbon emissions of lawn equipment.

The saw’s 20 Inch Guide Bar features a durable, multi-rivet nose and 12-tooth design to better withstand tough cutting jobs. It also features a narrow kerf design (kerf refers to the width of the cut made by the chainsaw blade as it passes through wood … and: yes, I had to look it up) for more cuts per charge compared to standard kerf systems. High-visibility felling sights and dual metal bucking spikes are also included.

Milwaukee M18 FUEL chainsaw specs

Standard power mode:

• Peak Power: 4.4 hp
• Peak Torque: 5.6 Nm (about 4.15 lb-ft)

Peak power mode:

• 5.8 hp
• 9.5 Nm (about 7 lb-ft)

Other specs:

• Chain Speed: 14.3m/s
• Rpm: 7,400
• Bar Length: 20 inches
• Chain Pich: 0.325  inches
• Chain Gauge: – 0.050  inches
• Narrow Kerf: Yes
• Weight (Tool-Only): 15.1 pounds
• Weight w/ (2) FORGE XC8.0 Batteries: 19.9 pounds

Electrek’s Take

Cordless power tools have come a long way, and next-level tools from Milwaukee and others are proving the worth of batteries in extreme duty conditions. The more that happens, the more likely crews are to welcome electric power in ever-larger applications … like excavators and wheel loaders.

And, whether they like it or not, ever tightening noise and emissions regulations are making battery power a must-have in more markets by the day.

SOURCE | IMAGES: Milwaukee Tool, via For Construction Pros.